Artist

jill chism: artist

Jill Chism sees herself as a custodian of the natural environment, understanding the importance of place and our connections as humans to our local environment and the larger cosmos. From her early interest in Theology, Chism's understanding of reality has evolved to become more aligned with Eastern philosophies, although she would agree that it is more important to 'suspend belief' through a conscious engagement with the amazing potential of the present moment. Her art practice which spans four decades, evokes the liminal zones where questions are asked, objects appear and disappear, edges blur between realities, always inviting reflection on who we are and our purpose.

Using an eclectic approach to materials and processes, determined always by the project at hand, the works include ephemeral sculptures, assemblage, glass works that are imbued with ethereal qualities and more permanent stainless steel and wood structures. She is often seen at her local beach collecting waste and recycling this into both ephemeral and fixed works within natural sites and gallery environments.

Her selected 27 solo exhibitions demonstrate her versatility, command of mixed materials and understanding of various geographical site-specific locations across Australia.

Motivated to elevate and inspire, Chism's public artwork spans the East Coast of Australia with over 22 commissions. It is site specific, engaging local communities, masterfully translating their voice into refined work that unites people and place. Chism has a command of materials, which ensures both a personal and meaningful aesthetic.

Jill Chism lives and works in Far North Queensland. A recipient of a Creative Fellowship from Arts Queensland, in 2007 she launched Waters' edge, creating environments. This 3 year environmental Art Project entailed Chism and invited artists responding to various sites at the waters edge across Queensland. Chism has established educational art programs in a number of Institutes and currently lectures in the Bachelor of Creative Arts at James Cook University in Cairns.

Chism continues to work from her studio at Oak Beach, south of Port Douglas on public and private commissions within Australia.

In 2016 Chism will launch Oak Beach Studio, where she will offer environmental artists workshops yearly, along with an annual exhibition of her work on site. Chism will also offer The Artists Path, which is a tailored art program for small groups and individuals who wish to unveil deeper aspects of their self through making art.

Project Consultants Public Art

For 14 years of my art practice I have completed from concept design to installation, 20 sculptures/ Public art, along Australia's east coast. A large aspect of each public artwork has been the collaboration with various project management individuals and groups as well as Public Art Advisory Groups, representatives from local and state governments and people from private project management. While I have listed the individuals and management groups below, (from the most recent artworks backwards in time) I cannot convey the extraordinary wealth of each of those relationships in projects that have mostly been created over several years.

But I wish to confirm that without such people, the finished work would not have been possible. Public Art is a particularly tricky arena in terms of current regulatory controls for any object that exists in the public domain. The process is becoming more litigious with greater emphasis on accountability. I can't thank these individuals and groups enough for their participation in all of the projects I have been commissioned for. Note: I have not listed any individuals or groups involved in projects that did not go through to installation.

I would also like to personally thank all of the subcontractors that I have engaged in these projects. For the majority of these the workmanship has been of an exemplary standard. Over the years (The whole 14 years in some cases) I have developed steadfast professional relationships with fabricators in several mediums including (mainly) digital art glass, wood, stainless steel including mirror stainless and Vitrapanel. Having creative installers and product consultants is also vital including glass installation, LED lighting consultation and installation, and steel fabrication and installation.

As a rule, with each project, I am as 'hands on' as possible with the aim in mind of creating the best possible 'site specific' work. In some cases I have had to create the majority of components in the finished work and in others I supply completed images only (for art glass works as an example). Whatever the situation I have come to understand that clear communication and direction is a vital component for a successful work.